The Ultimate Moving Checklist: How to Stay Organized Before, During, and After Your Move
Hi friends! It’s Sarah here 👋 and if you're reading this, there's a good chance you're gearing up for a move, or helping someone who is. First of all, congrats! Moving is such an exciting new chapter... but let’s be honest, it can also be a little (okay, a LOT) overwhelming. Whether you're relocating across the country or just around the corner, staying organized can be the difference between a smooth move and total chaos. I’m sharing my Ultimate Moving Checklist, broken down into before, during, and after your move. Let’s make this your most stress-free move yet!
BEFORE THE MOVE: Prep Like a Pro
Declutter ruthlessly
Before you even think about packing, go room by room and donate, toss, or sell anything you don’t love or need. Less stuff = less to pack = less stress.
Create a moving binder or digital folder
Keep all important documents (quotes, leases, contracts, to-do lists) in one place. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Label boxes by room and category
Get specific! Instead of just “Kitchen,” try “Kitchen / Coffee Supplies.” It’ll make unpacking 10x easier.
Schedule utilities and mail forwarding
Set a reminder to transfer or cancel utilities and update your address with USPS, your bank, and any subscription services.
Pack a “first night” bag
Think of it as a mini overnight kit: pajamas, toothbrush, phone charger, snacks, and any other can’t-live-without items.
🚚 DURING THE MOVE: Stay Calm, Stay In Control
Use clear bins for essentials
Need quick access to tools, pet supplies, or kiddo snacks? Pack ‘em in a clear bin so you can spot them fast.
Keep a printed copy of your checklist
Your phone might die or get lost in a pile of bubble wrap. Having a hard copy keeps things moving smoothly (pun intended).
Take photos of furniture setups or electronics
So you don’t have to guess which cord goes where when you're exhausted and just want your WiFi to work.
Have snacks and water on hand
Moving day is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay hydrated and keep those blood sugar levels steady, no hangry movers here!
🛋 AFTER THE MOVE: Settle In Without the Stress
Unpack room by room
Start with the kitchen and bedroom to get the essentials out first. Don’t try to tackle everything in one day!
Recycle boxes and packing materials
Once you’re done unpacking, break down those boxes and see if a neighbor needs them, or check local recycling rules.
Do a little deep cleaning
Even if the place looks clean, a once-over with your go-to products makes it feel more like your home.
Make it cozy
Hang a few favorite pieces, light a candle, put on music—whatever makes it feel like you.
Celebrate!
Pop some bubbly, order your favorite takeout, or do a little happy dance in your new living room. You did it!
Final Thoughts from Me
Moving can be a lot, but it doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a plan, a checklist, and maybe a little help from Streamline 😉, you’ll be unpacked and loving your new space in no time. I'm just a message away if you're in the thick of it and need some support, whether it’s organizing, decluttering, or packing.
Happy moving!
xo,
Sarah
Founder of Streamline Living Solutions
